There are only so many new roads, newly-tarred roads, and new (tarred, we suppose) parking lots the city of Petaling Jaya can provide to its 600,000+ residents. So rather than risk drowning in traffic and pollution, the PJ City Council (MBPJ) has decided to provide free bus services beginning April.
Mayor Datin Paduka Alinah Ahmad said the city council has allocated RM1 million its annual budget for the project.
‘’It is our social responsibility and providing the people with free bus services is one way to show them we care,’’ said Alinah.
She said the aim was to show the feasibility of using public transport to get around Petaling Jaya, especially during peak hours in the mornings and evenings.
“The operational hours will be during peak hours so that schoolchildren and working adults can benefit,” the mayor said.
The 10 vehicles serving the free routes will operate at a frequency of five minutes during peak hours and 10 minutes at off-peak.
The Mayor also said that incentives were being put in place to incentivise MBPJ employees to leave their vehicles at home and adopt public transportation.
“This will free up parking spaces in PJ New Town and surrounding areas, as well as reduce the number of bays needed,” said Alinah.
Photo: Ian Fuller / Flickr
Source: The Malay Mail Online
